AMHS Releases 2010 Summer Ferry Schedule Early

Published: October 1, 2009

Oct. 1, 2009

(JUNEAU, Alaska) – For the second consecutive year, the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) released its summer sailing schedule early for its 11 vessels serving 32 ports between Bellingham, Wash., and Alaska.

“Everyone within the AMHS is very pleased to offer next summer’s schedule in a timely fashion that opens the opportunity for possible, increased ridership next year,” said Jim Beedle, Deputy Commissioner of Marine Operations for the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities.

Beedle said that the AMHS remains very responsive to communities along its routes by routinely working with them to consider school and community events and activities when designing a schedule to meet the greatest number of needs.

“This schedule is endorsed by MTAB and we’ve been successful at balancing efficient vessel deployment with fiscal responsibility. We will continue to seek input from MTAB on schedule development with the outstanding working relationship with the MTAB,” said Beedle.

Providing the greatest level of service to Alaskans remains one of the most important goals that the AMHS consistently seeks to achieve.

In August, the Southeast Alaska community of Tenakee Springs sponsored an appreciation day there to praise the service levels the AMHS has provided in recent times.

“When an entire community hosts a festive gathering to say ‘thank you’, that’s an indescribable feeling that tells us to press on and serve Alaskans as best we can,” emphasized Beedle.